Winter Fishing Update: Poudre River

As winter sets in, the Canyon Mouth gauge has frozen, but the main stem of the Poudre River is still fishing well! While ice and snow line the banks, focus on open areas with deeper, slower-moving water – these are the fish’s winter hideaways. Most of the open water will be found below the Mishawaka amphitheater down to the canyon mouth.

Hot Spot: Fishing in the lower canyon below Poudre Park will be in your best interest. The river has started to ice over, so look for slow moving water that is still open.

Fishing Tips:

• Single or double nymph rigs with Baetis and Midge patterns setup about 1-1.5 feet apart under a small 1/2 inch or yarn indicator have been producing well.
• Include an emerging midge or baetis as your bottom fly if you notice fish coming up from the bottom of the river to eat in the middle water column.
• If you see fish rising pay attention to the rise form. A slow rise leaving a small dimple or slight swirl of water can indicate that the fish are eating emergers that are stuck in or are suspended directly below the surface film. A fast rise accompanied with a splash or air bubble left on the surface indicates that fish are eating adult insects directly off of the surface before the bug can fly away.

Safety Note: Do not try to walk on icy banks. Ice is still thin enough to collapse under the weight of your body. Don’t let that stop you, just be cautious – winter fishing can offer some great solitude, wonderful scenery, and great fishing.

Keep fishing, keep catching! Share your stories and catches with us or call if you have any questions – we’d love to hear how you’re doing!